Don't blame sodas for obesity and related health problems

Recent articles ("Sugary drinks are loaded with trouble," April 4; "Diet drinks a weighty issue," April 11) do a disservice to this paper's readers, who deserve to know the facts about soft drinks.

The facts clearly show that soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages are not driving obesity or obesity-related health conditions. When data from the federal government and independent third parties is examined, it shows that by every measure, soda consumption is declining, while at the same time obesity rates continue to rise. Furthermore, calories from all sugar-sweetened beverages account for only about 7 percent of the average American's diet. Thus, focusing exclusively on sugar-sweetened beverages means ignoring the other 93 percent of calories in the diet.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg's proposed soda ban on beverages larger than 16 ounces in certain New York City locations was misguided for many reasons. Importantly, the research upon which this proposal was based was misinterpreted in the first place, as publicly noted by its authors. Since soda consumption is not uniquely driving obesity, arbitrarily banning certain-sized soft drinks would likely have done nothing to combat this public health challenge. Furthermore, a recent behavioral study published in the journal PLoS ONE showed that consumers were more likely to order more soda if it was "bundled" in smaller amounts.

The non-alcoholic beverage industry is doing its part when it comes to meaningful solutions. Clear calorie labels are on the front of every can, bottle and pack our members produce, so consumers know exactly how many calories are in the beverage before making a purchase. Our products are offered in a broad range of calories and portion sizes, too, which allows consumers to choose the beverage that's right for them and their family.

Despite Internet myths, low-calorie sweeteners have been approved by regulatory agencies around the world, including the World Health Organization, U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the European Food Safety Authority, as safe for use in foods and beverages. Diet soft drinks and their ingredients are safe and science does not support the notion that their consumption leads to weight gain. In fact, just the opposite has been shown through the overwhelming body of research: Diet beverages can be an effective tool for weight loss and maintenance.

The safety of low-calorie sweeteners has been confirmed time and time again. In fact, when it comes to the low-calorie sweetener aspartame, an expert panel of some of the world's leading toxicologists completed an extensive review of the ingredient in 2007 and once again confirmed its safety, even among its heaviest users. Furthermore, a study conducted by government researchers at the National Cancer Institute involving more than 500,000 people, also found that there was no increased risk of any type of cancer even among those who consumed the most aspartame.

The bottom line: Diet sodas are safe, effective as a weight loss tool, and just one of the many options through which beverage companies are delivering more choices to their consumers.

When it comes to overweight and obesity, what we know is that all calories count, regardless of their source. Many people trying to lose weight switch to diet beverages, which are 99 percent water and contain low-calorie sweeteners, as a way to reduce their caloric intake without sacrificing flavor. Low-calorie sweeteners can help reduce calories and sugar intake and aid maintaining a healthy weight. This position is supported by health organizations including the American Diabetes Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

The non-alcoholic beverage industry has a long history of creating innovative products to meet consumer demand. Today, there are more low- and no-calorie beverage options in a range of portion sizes than ever before. In fact, 45 percent of beverages sold today are zero calorie products.

Our industry provides consumers with safe, refreshing products that can fit any lifestyle. I encourage readers to examine the facts and make beverage choices that reflect your needs and fits within your balanced diet and exercise regimen.

LESLIE A. FUGATE

Executive Director

Kentucky Beverage Association

Louisville 40253

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Don't blame sodas for obesity and related health problems

Recent articles ('Sugary drinks are loaded with trouble,' April 4; 'Diet drinks a weighty issue,' April 11) do a disservice to this paper's readers, who deserve to know the facts about soft drinks.